Knowledgebase

Miniature Rose Issues #870256

Asked May 27, 2024, 11:45 AM EDT

Hi Master Gardeners! My name is Mandy and I live in Richwood. I've had a miniature rose for about 7 years that lives indoor in the winter and outdoor in the summer. A few years ago, I asked the Delaware master gardeners what might be causing yellow/brown brittle leaves that keep falling off. They responded that it seemed like a spider mite and gave me instructions to get rid of it. Unfortunately the problem has persisted despite everything I've tried, so I wanted to get an updated opinion and make sure I'm treating the right condition. My mini rose is now the size of a full sized rose (2+ ft tall), I repotted into a bigger pot last year. Over the winter, I continually sprayed off all sides of the leaves with a strong shower/water spray (supposed to blow the spider mites off the leaves) and this year I've treated the rose once with Bioadvanced Rose and Flower Insect Killer and I added a Jobe's organic fertilizer spike to the pot. I did have a caterpillar infestation last year, but I haven't seen any more caterpillars since I treated with Bioadvanced last year. The rose bloomed this year and has new growth, but the leaves keep turning brown and falling off. Can you let me know what this might be and how to treat it? Thanks!

Union County Ohio

Expert Response

From the pictures it appears your plant may have Rose Blackspot which is the most common foliar disease that attacks landscape roses. Splashing water spread the spores and can defoliate the rose. 
I found some websites with reliable information regarding black spot on roses and listed them below.

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/insects-pests-and-problems/diseases/fungal-spots/black-spot

https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1450

https://news-archive.cfaes.ohio-state.edu/news-release/black-spot-roses-can-be-challenge-even-experienced-rose-grower

I hope this information is helpful to you and you will receive many years of enjoyment from your rose.
Lola W Replied June 04, 2024, 10:05 PM EDT

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